Features Overview

Here are some examples of adaptive keywork I have done. This type of work can help overcome physical disabilities, or make keywork more ergonomic for players coping with anything from short fingers to arthritis.

Adaptive Keywork

This English Horn belongs to a player with very short arms and fingers. The C# key was extended for easier reach, and touch plates added to change the hand position.

The split D was capped while retaining the Eb/E trill function, and the touch plate on the E still vents properly for the high C#.

Left f extension

Players with short pinky fingers often have trouble reaching the left F. The oboe on the right has had this key extended for easier reach.

Adaptive key systems

The owner of these instruments lost several fingers of the right hand in an accident. I designed and built this keywork to give the thumbs the functionality of the missing fingers. The instruments are completely functional, and the player has been using them successfully for years now.